Entering freshmen admissions criteria: 27 ACT and top 10% of high school graduating class (or a 3.75 GPA if school does not rank). Note: The program does exercise some discretion when a student falls slightly below one of these criteria, but perhaps comes from a large or highly competitive high school or other pertinent factors apply.

Currently enrolled students need a cumulative GPA of 3.20 (based on NIU coursework) for admission. Thus, it is very possible to join the program even if one is not admitted as an incoming freshman.

Transfer students need a cumulative GPA of 3.20 (based on all transfer coursework).

*Students who are Honors-eligible are automatically invited to join; others may apply—application is available online